The value of a perception and control test in predicting performance in dental students and ancillary personnel

A test designed to measure basic manual perception and control skills, assumed to be less susceptible to the effects of haphazard and unplanned training, was developed and used with groups of dental students and ancillary personnel. The test was similar to one reported to be successful in predicting practical ability in American dental students. Statistical techniques were used to compare the results of the perception and control test with practical and theory examination results. The results show that the perception and control test is not a reliable predictor of performance with British dental students but was more successful with the ancillary groups and particularly with dental auxiliaries.